Period-absorbing workout clothes are now a thing—would you try them?

September 25, 2017 8:27 PM

Blood plus sweat doesn't breed harmful bacteria, but the extra-moist environment could help it flourish.

The free-bleeding movement—going without a pad or tampon during your cycle—has hit the gym. Well, kinda.

Some women are replacing standard protection with absorbent fitness gear: Period-undie brand Thinx now has workout shorts designed to soak up liquid, and Dear Kate has a 10-piece leggings collection that does the same. Proponents claim it feels comfier, especially during cardio. But is it hygienic? Undetectable? Houston urogynecologist Terri-Ann Samuels, M.D., says yes and yes, if you follow these rules.

1. Don't do it every day. Go "free" on light days. No protection with a heavy flow might make you feel annoyingly wet and distract you from your workout.

2. Keep it clean. Shower ASAP, within an hour, to prevent down-there infections (yeast and the like). Blood plus sweat doesn't breed harmful bacteria, but the extra-moist environment could help it flourish.

FOR YOUR GYM MATES

3. Prepare for odor-prevention. If you're self-conscious about smell—which can be less pleasant when tinny blood mixes with sweat—take probiotics. They help balance flora, easing odor.

4.Use extra protection. Bring your own (dark) towel and place it over mats and seats just in case: You may mistake leaks for sweat. While period blood isn't any more infectious than other blood, it has uterine lining—nobody wants to touch that.